Around age 7, the first adult molars typically erupt, helping to define a patient’s back bite and allowing the orthodontist to more effectively evaluate the bite. Orthodontic appliances can be an instrumental part of your orthodontic treatment plan and help to prevent more serious problems in the future.
Looking for an orthodontic practice in the Cupertino or Los Altos, CA areas? Contact one of our offices to schedule an appointment today!
Cupertino Office: 408-610-9886
Los Altos Office: 650-946-2367
Space Maintainers
Space maintainers are used to keep teeth from drifting into an empty tooth space due to early loss of primary (baby) teeth. Baby teeth act as a guide for the eruption of the permanent teeth. A space maintainer is made of stainless steel and/or plastic. It can be removable or fixed to the teeth.
Expanders
Used to widen or expand the upper jaw, a palatal expander can be used to address crowding and other orthodontic issues by creating more room to accommodate tooth and/or jaw alignment. Expanding the upper jaw also effects the floor of the nasal cavity, helping to increase air flow and making breathing easier.
Partial Braces
Early-phase braces applied to small sections of teeth to guide proper alignment during growth.
Corrective Guidance for Jaw Growth
We also utilize oral appliances to intervene in malocclusions and adjust or balance jaw growth, ensuring proper bite development in the growing years.
Habit Appliances
A habit appliance is useful to help stop a thumb or finger habit and/or to help re-train an improper tongue position or swallowing pattern. It is sometimes necessary to place an appliance to minimize the harm and distortion the habits or tongue posture can have on teeth. Most habit appliances are banded for adhesion to the back molars and are not removable.
